So you've entered into the world of online poker on various gambling websites. Currently you’re equipped with a computer/laptop, modem, an account at your favourite online casino and some cash to get started. You grab some snacks, get comfortable, log in and wait for your first hand of electronic cards to be dealt to you by the ‘bot’ dealer. Immediately your thoughts are centred on winning big and making gambling news headlines before getting a fancy new suit, big sunglasses and trotting around town with two models attached to either arm while cash rains from the heavens.

The reality is, without a strategy you will soon be sitting next to an empty snack bowl, smell of sweat, have ruffled hair, an online account running on empty, a look of disbelief on your face and no fancy new suit. Don't let this discourage you though, since our strategy guide is here to make that first option a reality.

Texas Hold 'em Poker is an online phenomenon and new players are flocking into card rooms around the World Wide Web on a daily basis. Unlike days long gone where only the skilled could enjoy poker at a traditional casino, the online realm provides a platform for everyone to give it a whirl.

What you should know is that the strategy between traditional poker in a casino and playing online differs significantly. To assist you in increasing your bankroll, here are some important tips to keep in mind next time you prepare for a session at your favourite online table:

• Play at your level:

Many amateur players feel that they are ready to take on poker stars after just a few days online. This is a big mistake. Play at your level until you have visibly improved at winning games. Steadily take on better opponents to constantly improve your own game.

• Choose your games wisely:

When entering your online casino, you are generally greeted by a lobby area. Many players just look for an active game and join in the fun. Wrong! This is a well of information, neatly laid out for you to take advantage of. Each game is accompanied by statistics such as the average pot size, the average amount of hands per hour, how many players are seeing the flop, etc. Not only can you join a game that best suits your style (crazy and fast, or slow and cautious), but it will allow you to start reading the opponents you will face off against straight away.

• Play multiple games:

This has turned into an important skill online. At the start, it is possible that your winnings will be slightly less than just participating in a single game. This is a long-term strategy though. At the beginning, rushed decisions and added pressure will cause you to make one or two bad decisions and miss out on some opportunities. As you take note of these, you will begin to improve. Top players in the online world can handle up to ten simultaneous games and more.

• Keep things going:

If you are winning, be sure to play smartly but quickly. This way there are more hands being dealt and more money being raked in during your winning streak. Also, consistently delaying games is not only considered rude by other players, but it will also limit the amount of hands dealt, resulting in less winnings.

• Use auto options wisely:

Most card rooms online have automatic decision buttons to allow you to handle multiple games. These normally include: bet, check, fold, call any bet, raise any bet etc. Other players will be able to read this when used over extended periods, thereby allowing them to take advantage of the situation.

• Remember faces:

When regularly visiting your favourite poker site, you are likely to find a batch of other regular players. These sites also normally offer an option to take notes. Here you can lists various bits of information on different players. Start by taking notes of only the best and worst players at your online casino as this will allow you to choose games wisely, increase your winnings and decrease the amount you lose to top online poker players.

• How to read your opponents:

Playing poker at an establishment with your opponent across the table from you provides you with visual clues on their strategy. The ability to read their game is done by observing habits, movements and facial expressions as well as their conversation patterns. Online, none of the above is available to you. The alternative online is to thoroughly monitor their betting habits. Although you could find something on a player who consistently uses the chat box in his game, this is not regularly reliable in on most players. What should you look for? There are three main things to observe: the amount they bet, how long it takes them to bet and how often they use automatic options. Be aware though as experienced players may try and intentionally use these to trick you. Most of the time, players avoid using trickery and their patterns are genuine, but you should keep an eye out for the odd few.
The important thing to remember here is that all players have a general pattern, including yourself. Read their pattern, take notes and use the information to your advantage.

• Make use of hand histories:

Some sites either have an option for you to click on, or offer your hand history over email. Reviewing this will allow you to spot your trends, as well as those made against you by your opponents.

Apply these tips to your game now and you will be well on your way to becoming a poker champion - new suit and all!
Jason Acar is a vastly experienced journalist with an interest in online gaming and gambling. He has written many poker reviews and articles on how the get a poker bonus.